Reconexión con la identidad nacional a través del turismo: Percepciones del patrimonio ecuatoriano en residentes universitarios en el exterior

This article analyzes the perceptions of Ecuadorian university students living abroad regarding the cultural and touristic heritage of Ecuador. The objective is to understand how these representations influence the construction of national identity and to what extent tourism can serve as a mechanism for symbolic and emotional reconnection. A mixed-method approach was applied, combining a structured survey with 208 students in Europe and five semi-structured interviews with key informants. The findings reveal a strong cultural identification with elements such as gastronomy, festivities, and national symbols, as well as a significant interest in participating in tourism programs specifically designed for the diaspora. The study also highlights the central role of social media and digital platforms in mediating heritage content. It concludes that cultural tourism can serve as an effective tool for identity strengthening among young migrants, opening new avenues for designing cultural and tourism policies with a transnational focus.